Luke 21:1 - Meaning and Application

This short story was also recorded in Mark. It is told twice to teach us several things. First, charity to the poor is a major part of true religion. Our Lord Jesus took every chance to praise and encourage it. He had just spoken about the cruelty of the scribes, who devoured poor widows (Luke 20), and this may also sharpen that warning, since the poor widows were among the best supporters of the public funds, which the scribes controlled.

Second, Jesus Christ watches us to see what we give to the poor and what we contribute to works of piety and charity. Christ, even while he was focused on teaching, looked up to see what gifts were being put into the treasury (Luke 21:1). He notices whether we give freely and generously, according to what we have, or whether we are stingy and mean with our giving. He also sees whether we give with a willing heart or grudgingly and under pressure.

This should make us fear falling short in this duty, because people can be fooled by excuses that Christ knows are empty. It should also encourage us to give generously, without caring whether people notice. It is enough that Christ sees it. He sees in secret, and he will reward openly.

Third, Christ especially notices and accepts the charity of the poor. Those who have nothing to give may still do much good by serving the poor, helping them, and speaking up for them when they cannot help themselves. Here, though, was a woman who was herself poor and still gave what little she had to the treasury. It was only two mites, the smallest coins, but Christ praised it as greater than all the other gifts. He did not fault her for being unwise in giving away what she needed, or for trying to draw attention by giving among the rich. Instead, he praised her generosity and her willingness to give up what little she had for God’s glory. That came from faith in God’s care and trust that he would provide, like the name Jehovah-jireh, which means, “The Lord will provide.”

Fourth, whatever may be called God’s offerings should have our respect, and we should give to them freely, even beyond what seems easy for us. The things given to support the ministry and the gospel, to spread religion, to educate the young, to free prisoners, to help widows and strangers, and to support poor families, are offerings to God. They will be accepted by him and rewarded by him.